The change was announced in December after federal regulators approved a swap of landing rights between Delta and U.S. Airways.

U.S. Airways had turboprop service between Syracuse Hancock International Airport and LaGuardia. Delta said putting jets on the route was part of its strategy to become “the preferred airline in New York.”

Delta uses LaGuardia as a hub airport for service to much of the Southeast. The airline plans to expand its connections at LaGuardia as part of a $160 million modernization program at the airport.

In December, Kevin Schwab, vice president of air service at economic development group CenterState CEO, said the jets are not only faster but larger than the turboprops they replace. That could lead to greater competition for passengers and, he said, more affordable fares.

On Friday, the lowest advance-purchase fare Delta was offering for a roundtrip between Hancock and LaGuardia was $148 plus taxes and fees.